Best Easy Yangzhou Lion's Head Meatballs Recipe

Yangzhou lion's head meatballs are oversized, tender pork balls braised with napa cabbage. A high protein, comforting family dish with fresh, savory broth.

Cook 90 min Difficulty NORMAL 340 kcal
#high protein #diabetic friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • ground pork (80/20) 1.5 lbs
  • napa cabbage 1 head
  • water chestnuts 0.5 cup
  • scallions 4 pieces
  • egg 2 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • soy sauce 3 tbsp
  • Shaoxing wine 2 tbsp
  • white pepper 0.5 tsp
  • sugar 1 tsp
  • sesame oil 1 tbsp
  • salt 1.5 tsp
  • chicken broth 3 cups
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 11 g 13%
Protein 22 g 26%
Fat 22 g 61%
Serving size 300g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped water chestnuts, 2 beaten eggs, 2 tbsp soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, white pepper, sugar, 2 finely chopped scallions, and 1 tsp salt. Mix vigorously until the texture is tacky; this develops binding and tenderness.

  2. 2

    Divide pork mixture into four large balls, pressing tightly to form smooth, uniform spheres for even cooking.

  3. 3

    Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high. Brown the meatballs carefully on all sides for 2–3 minutes, turning gently with a spatula to avoid breakage.

  4. 4

    Layer half the napa cabbage leaves at the bottom of the pot, place meatballs on top, then cover with the rest of the cabbage and add chicken broth, sesame oil, and remaining soy sauce.

  5. 5

    Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, occasionally spooning broth over meatballs and ensuring liquid stays at a gentle simmer.

  6. 6

    Garnish with sliced scallions and serve each meatball in a generous portion of broth and cabbage.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The star of Yangzhou Lion's Head Meatballs is the ground pork, which provides the dish's rich flavor and signature tender texture. Combined with napa cabbage and water chestnuts, these core ingredients create the comforting balance of savory meat and fresh sweetness.
Q. Why are the meatballs gently simmered instead of boiled vigorously?
Gently simmering the meatballs over low heat helps maintain their oversized, juicy texture and prevents them from falling apart. Vigorous boiling can break the meatballs and toughen the pork, so keeping the heat low is critical for a delicate, tender result.
Q. How can I avoid tough or dry meatballs in this recipe?
Mixing the pork mixture until tacky ensures binding and tenderness, while not overcooking prevents dryness. Browning the meatballs briefly before gentle braising locks in juices. Simmer at low heat and avoid overstirring to preserve their softness.
Q. How many calories and how much protein does each serving provide?
Each serving contains approximately 340 kcal and 22g of protein. With protein making up about 26% of the total calories, this dish offers a substantial protein boost alongside moderate carbohydrates and healthy fat.
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